Minnesota Timberwolves head coach Chris Finch gave forward Joe Ingles a special moment during the team’s game against the New Orleans Pelicans. Ingles, who hadn’t started a game in three years, was placed in the starting lineup so that his son Jacob, who is autistic, could watch him play through an entire NBA game. Jacob had never been able to sit through a whole game before due to sensory overload, but was determined to watch his dad play and not miss a second of the action.
Ingles’ wife Renae shared the touching moment on Instagram, expressing how proud she was of Jacob for reaching this milestone. The Ingles family was grateful to Coach Finch for giving them this opportunity to watch Joe play, even though Joe didn’t have a good game statistically. The family walked away with a memory they will cherish forever, as Jacob was able to experience something he had never been able to do before.
The Ingles family resides in Orlando, but were in Minnesota to watch Joe play. Jacob attends a school he loves in Orlando and has a home there that provides him with a safe haven. During an earlier game against the Utah Jazz, Jacob expressed his desire to watch his dad play instead of playing PlayStation at home. This heartfelt moment led to Coach Finch’s decision to start Joe in a game to ensure that Jacob could watch his dad take the court.
Joe Ingles was initially surprised when Coach Finch told him he would be starting in the game against the Pelicans. The game was crucial for the Timberwolves as they were battling for a playoff spot, but Finch felt it was important to do the human thing and give the Ingles family a special moment to remember. Despite not performing well on the court, Ingles knew that the moment shared with his family was one he would never forget.
Renae Ingles shared the emotional moment on Instagram, highlighting the dedication and perseverance it took for Jacob to be able to sit through an entire game. The Ingles family felt incredibly thankful for the support they had received throughout their journey. Joe Ingles expressed his gratitude for the experience, stating that it was something he would remember forever. The Timberwolves may have won the game, but the real victory was the lasting memory created for the Ingles family that night.
Through the kindness of Coach Finch and the support of the Timberwolves organization, the Ingles family was able to share a special moment together that transcended the game of basketball. Jacob’s determination to watch his dad play and the family’s emotional response to the experience captured the hearts of many. This heartwarming story reminds us of the power of sports to bring people together and create lasting memories that go beyond wins and losses on the court. The Ingles family’s story serves as a reminder of the importance of family, dedication, and the impact of small gestures of kindness.
